Catherine Magaleta, from Nkhukhi 2 in Salima’s Chinguluwe EPA, is a shining example of resilience and innovation. As a single woman navigating a challenging environment, Catherine’s journey of growth has been shaped by her involvement in the Women Economic Empowerment in the Cotton Value Chain (WEECVC) Project, implemented by the African Institute of Corporate Citizenship (AICC) with support from We Effect.
As a member of the Kachikumba group, known for its successful beekeeping and cotton farming ventures, Catherine has always had a strong desire to secure a better future for herself. Her turning point came after participating in the training provided by AICC, which fundamentally shifted her approach to farming and entrepreneurship.
Before her engagement with AICC, Catherine viewed farming as a tradition passed down through generations—a way of life that barely met her daily needs. However, the training she received under the WEECVC Project opened her eyes to the potential of farming as a business, a path to financial independence, and a way to improve her living standards. Empowered with this new perspective, she began diversifying her efforts.
Catherine invested in livestock, acquiring nine goats and fifteen chickens, which now provide her with a steady income and a form of security in an unpredictable economic environment. Following AICC’s guidance, she also established a vegetable garden alongside her cotton farm. This garden not only supplies her with fresh produce but has become an additional source of income, contributing to her financial stability.
The results of these efforts are evident in her life. With the income generated from her various enterprises, Catherine has significantly improved her home, even installing a cement floor—a tangible symbol of her determination to create a more comfortable and dignified living space.
Catherine’s story is one of empowerment and self-reliance. Her involvement in the WEECVC Project has helped her transform traditional farming practices into thriving businesses, showcasing how education and support can unlock the hidden potential within individuals and communities. As she continues to expand her enterprises, Catherine stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when one dares to reimagine the possibilities.